New Rule for Post-Graduation Work Permit Eligibility
Introduction:
Starting in 2024, the Canadian government introduced a new eligibility requirement for international students applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)—specifically targeting those enrolled in non-degree programs. These include certificate, diploma, and other non-bachelor/master/PhD programs.
Under this rule, to be eligible for a PGWP, students must complete a program in a field of study directly linked to jobs facing long-term labour shortages in Canada. These are the occupations that are being actively prioritized under immigration programs like Express Entry.
This new requirement applies to students who submitted their study permit applications on or after November 1, 2024.
Recent Update to Eligible Fields – July 4, 2025
To reflect the labour market priorities for 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) made updates to the list of eligible programs on July 4, 2025.
This list is based on CIP codes a classification used to group academic programs by field of study.
This update helps align international education with Canada’s evolving economic and workforce needs.
What Was Added?
As part of the July 4 update, 119 new fields of study were added back to the eligibility list.
These fields were identified as being closely connected to industries that are currently facing long-term labour shortages in Canada.
These include vital sectors such as:
- Healthcare (e.g. nursing, health aides)
- Social services (e.g. community support work)
- Skilled trades (e.g. plumbing, welding, carpentry)
- Education-related programs
By adding these fields, the government is ensuring that international graduates can support areas of high demand in the job market while also benefiting from better career prospects in Canada.
What Was Removed?
At the same time, 178 fields of study were removed from the PGWP-eligible list.
These programs are no longer linked to occupations that are experiencing long-term shortages and thus, no longer align with Canada’s labour needs.
This step was taken to ensure that international graduates are encouraged to pursue meaningful careers in areas where Canada truly needs skilled talent.
Current Status: 920 Eligible Fields
After these changes, the total number of PGWP-eligible fields of study now stands at 920.
This updated list ensures that education pathways remain aligned with immigration goals and the needs of the Canadian economy.
What Happens If You Applied Between June 25 and July 4, 2025?
Originally, some fields of study were removed from the list on June 25, 2025. However, many of these were added back during the update on July 4.
So if you submitted your study permit application between June 25 and July 4, your program will still be eligible for PGWP when you graduate—even if it was briefly removed from the list.
This ensures students aren’t penalized due to timing and protects those who applied in good faith.
What If You Applied Before June 25, 2025?
If you applied for your study permit before June 25, 2025, and your program was eligible at the time of your application, you will still be eligible for a PGWP—even if your field of study has since been removed.
This rule protects students from sudden changes and helps maintain fairness and predictability in the immigration process.
Future Updates Coming in 2026
IRCC has confirmed that the list of eligible fields of study will be reviewed and updated again in early 2026.
As Canada’s labour market continues to evolve, international students are advised to stay updated on future changes and carefully choose their program of study based on both personal interests and career opportunities in Canada.
Get in touch with SPS Global
Receive professional advice on any of your questions regarding Canadian immigration. get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Global. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).
